Making the case for magistrates

Sir - As a magistrate, I welcome the publication of the Alcohol Entertainment Licensing Bill (report, Nov 14). Liquor licensing has long been ripe for reform. It is time for Britain to come into line with the rest of Europe.

However, I am more than disappointed that part of the package is to remove the jurisdiction of liquor licensing from magistrates' courts to local authorities. Magistrates are highly rated and have, by the very nature of their work, vast knowledge of the communities in which they serve. The idea that magistrates are remote is untrue.

On a daily basis we deal with the very people who are causing increasing concern with alcohol-related crime and disorderly behaviour. We are an independent and impartial body, with long experience, able to deliver licensing decisions promptly at minimal costs.

We have a good track record, providing consistency across the country and, as a result of this, the general opinion in the licensing trade is that we should continue with this work.